A friend is knitting a shawl and the abbreviation KBB is used. We thought perhaps it meant knit back backwards, but further instructions don't seem to fit that. Does anyone have an idea what KBB stands for?

Can you provide a context for this abbreviation? That is, could you post a little bit more of how it is used in the instructions?

Is this abbreviation from the beaded wrap being discussed in another forum? If so, it probably means knit bead through back of loop. In other words, insert needle in stitch to knit thru back loop, slide bead up yarn to needles, throw yarn (with bead)and draw/pop thru to make a loop with a bead on it. Knitting thru back of loop twists the stitch and helps present the bead better, keeping it on the surface rather than embedded in the fabric. A much more integrated use of beads than the slip stitch method.

Thanks for the suggestions - we have come to the conclusion that it does indeed mean Knit back backwards. There are no beads on this shawl so don't think it can refer to them. Also the only text I really remember is that it said to slip as if to KBB. The pattern indicated that experienced knitters would be familiar with this technique - so knit back backwards it is.